Childbirth by surgical removal of the fetus through an incision made in the wall of the abdomen and in the uterus, usually used as an alternative when natural delivery through the vagina is considered risky. The number of Cesarean sections in the United States has increased sharply in recent years, causing concern among patients, surgeons, and insurers.

Note: The term derives from the traditional belief that Julius Caesar was born by this method.

Note: The procedure is often referred to colloquially as a “C-section.”